Concord, New Hampshire
Merrimack County · Merrimack Valley

Concord

New Hampshire's capital city where small-town charm meets political history in perfect harmony.

Population43,976
CountyMerrimack
RegionMerrimack Valley

About Concord

Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire's Merrimack Valley, Concord serves as both the state capital and a charming New England city that perfectly balances governmental importance with small-town warmth. The golden dome of the State House rises majestically above tree-lined streets where 19th-century architecture tells stories of granite quarries, railroad prosperity, and political heritage. From the bustling downtown district with its mix of government buildings, local shops, and restaurants to the peaceful neighborhoods that fan out toward the surrounding hills, Concord offers residents and visitors alike a genuine taste of authentic New Hampshire living. What truly sets Concord apart is its unique position as a working capital city that never forgot its roots. Here, you might spot state legislators grabbing coffee at the same local café where families gather for weekend breakfast, or discover that the person next to you at a community event works in the State House but spends weekends hiking the nearby trails. The Merrimack River flows through the city's heart, providing both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, while the surrounding countryside offers easy access to lakes, forests, and mountains that make New Hampshire famous.

Why Concord?

  • State capital with rich political history and the iconic gold-domed State House
  • Perfect central location with easy access to mountains, lakes, and major cities
  • Strong sense of community with excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods
  • Thriving downtown with local businesses, restaurants, and cultural attractions
  • Abundant outdoor recreation opportunities along the Merrimack River and nearby forests

Quick Facts

Population
43,976
County
Merrimack
Region
Merrimack Valley
School District
SAU 8

Real Estate

Median Home Price
Contact a local realtor
Property Taxes
NH has no income or sales tax

Property taxes fund local services and schools

View Listings in Concord

Things To Do

New Hampshire State House Tours

year-round

Explore the nation's oldest state capitol building still in its original legislative use, topped by the iconic gold dome. Free guided tours showcase beautiful murals, historic chambers, and centuries of New Hampshire political history.

McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

year-round

This world-class planetarium and science museum honors New Hampshire's space heroes Christa McAuliffe and Alan Shepard. Interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and educational programs make it perfect for families and science enthusiasts.

Capitol Center for the Arts

year-round

Concord's premier performing arts venue hosts everything from Broadway touring shows to local theater productions. The beautifully restored historic theater provides intimate settings for concerts, comedy shows, and cultural events.

Merrimack River Greenway Trail

spring

This scenic walking and biking trail follows the Merrimack River through downtown Concord. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers and perfect weather for enjoying river views and spotting local wildlife.

New Hampshire Historical Society Museum

year-round

Discover fascinating exhibits about New Hampshire's past, from Native American history to the industrial age. The museum's collections include everything from Concord coaches to Civil War artifacts.

Rollins Park Ice Skating

winter

Enjoy free outdoor ice skating at this popular community gathering spot during winter months. The park also features a warming hut and is perfect for family winter fun in the heart of the city.

Outdoor Recreation

Merrimack River Rail Trail

year-round

This paved multi-use trail follows the former railroad bed along the Merrimack River for miles of scenic cycling. The flat, well-maintained surface makes it perfect for families and casual riders.

Bear Brook State Park

year-round

Just minutes from Concord, this 10,000-acre park offers extensive hiking trails through forests and around ponds. Multiple difficulty levels accommodate everyone from casual walkers to serious hikers.

Hopkinton-Everett Lake

summer

This Army Corps of Engineers lake provides excellent kayaking and canoeing opportunities just west of Concord. The calm waters and scenic shoreline make it ideal for paddlers of all skill levels.

OHRV Trails - Bear Brook State Park

year-round

Bear Brook features designated ATV and dirt bike trails for off-highway recreational vehicle enthusiasts. The park's trail system connects to the statewide OHRV network for extended adventures.

New Hampshire Snowmobile Trail System

winter

Concord serves as a hub for the extensive state snowmobile trail network with groomed trails heading in all directions. Local clubs maintain trails that connect to destinations throughout central New Hampshire.

Turkey Pond

year-round

This popular fishing spot offers good opportunities for bass, pickerel, and panfish. The pond features a boat launch and is easily accessible from downtown Concord.

White Park

summer

Concord's municipal pool and recreation area provides family-friendly swimming during summer months. The park also features playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities.

Pat's Peak

winter

Located just 20 minutes from Concord, this family-friendly ski area offers downhill skiing and snowboarding. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and reasonable prices, it's perfect for learning or casual skiing.

Dining & Entertainment

The Barley House

This popular downtown gastropub serves elevated comfort food in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Known for their extensive beer selection and creative American cuisine made with local ingredients.

Hermanos Cocina Mexicana

Authentic Mexican cuisine featuring fresh ingredients and traditional recipes in a vibrant, colorful setting. Their margaritas and homemade salsas have earned a devoted local following.

Revival Kitchen & Bar

Farm-to-table dining featuring seasonal New American cuisine in an elegant yet comfortable downtown location. The restaurant emphasizes local sourcing and creative presentations of regional favorites.

Teatotaller

A cozy tea house and café offering an extensive selection of loose-leaf teas, light meals, and homemade pastries. The intimate setting makes it perfect for quiet conversations or solo relaxation.

Concord Craft Brewing Company

Local brewery producing small-batch craft beers with a rotating selection of seasonal and specialty brews. The taproom offers a casual atmosphere perfect for sampling their latest creations with friends.

Local Businesses

Bread & Chocolate

Food & Drink

Artisan bakery and café creating fresh breads, pastries, and light meals using high-quality ingredients and European techniques.

29 S Main St

Capitol Auto Group

Other

Full-service automotive dealership providing new and used vehicle sales, financing, and comprehensive repair services.

893 Loudon Rd

Capitol Craftsman Jewelers

Other

Full-service jewelry store specializing in custom designs, repairs, and engagement rings with expert craftsmanship.

16 N Main St

Capitol Wellness Center

Health & Wellness

Full-service fitness facility offering state-of-the-art equipment, group classes, and personal training services for all fitness levels.

20 Commercial St

Carter Hill Orchard

Other

Family-owned apple orchard offering pick-your-own apples, fresh cider, and seasonal farm activities in a scenic rural setting.

73 Carter Hill Rd

Concord Camera

Other

Photography equipment and services including camera sales, repairs, and professional photo printing since 1954.

33 S Main St

Concord Chamber of Commerce

Other

Business advocacy organization supporting local commerce through networking, promotion, and economic development initiatives.

49 S Main St

Concord Community Music School

Education

Comprehensive music education facility offering private lessons, group classes, and performance opportunities for all ages.

23 Wall St

Concord Cooperative Market

Other

Community-owned natural foods cooperative offering organic produce, local products, and specialty items. Strong commitment to supporting local farmers and sustainable practices.

24 S Main St

Concord Food Co-op

Other

Community-owned natural foods store emphasizing local, organic, and sustainable products with a full deli.

24 S Main St

Concord Hospital

Health & Wellness

Regional medical center providing comprehensive healthcare services including emergency care, surgery, and specialized medical treatments.

250 Pleasant St

Concord Orthopaedics

Health & Wellness

Comprehensive orthopedic practice providing specialized care for sports injuries, joint replacement, and rehabilitation. State-of-the-art facility with experienced surgeons and therapists.

246 Pleasant St

Gibson's Bookstore

Shopping

Independent bookstore serving the community since 1898 with carefully curated selections and knowledgeable staff. A beloved gathering place for book lovers and literary events.

27 S Main St

Granite State Candy Shoppe

Food & Drink

Old-fashioned candy store creating handmade chocolates, fudge, and confections using traditional recipes and techniques.

13 Warren St

Hannah Grimes Marketplace

Shopping

Unique retail cooperative featuring locally-made products, gifts, and artisan goods from New Hampshire creators.

42 S Main St

Intown Concord

Other

Downtown revitalization organization promoting local businesses and organizing community events to enhance the urban core.

40 N Main St

League of NH Craftsmen

Other

Gallery and shop featuring handmade crafts by New Hampshire artisans including pottery, textiles, and woodwork. Educational programs and workshops support the local craft community.

49 S Main St

Mark Knipe Goldsmiths

Other

Custom jewelry design and repair shop creating unique pieces with exceptional craftsmanship. Family-owned business known for personalized service and beautiful wedding rings.

2 Capitol Plaza

New Hampshire Historical Society

Arts & Entertainment

State's premier historical organization maintaining extensive collections, research library, and museum exhibits about New Hampshire's past.

30 Park St

Northern Lights Music

Shopping

Full-service music store offering instruments, lessons, and repairs for musicians of all levels. Knowledgeable staff provides expert advice on everything from guitars to sound equipment.

90 Storrs St

Park Place Physical Therapy

Health & Wellness

Comprehensive rehabilitation services with experienced therapists serving the greater Concord area.

11 Centre St

Red River Theatres

Arts & Entertainment

Independent cinema showcasing art films, documentaries, and foreign movies alongside popular releases. Community-supported theater with comfortable seating and a welcoming atmosphere.

11 S Main St

Rollins Park

Outdoor Recreation

Municipal park featuring walking trails, playgrounds, ice skating rink, and open spaces for community recreation and events.

Rollins Park Dr

Sanel NAPA

Other

Regional auto parts distributor serving professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts throughout New Hampshire. Family-owned business with deep roots in the local community.

2 Pillsbury St

Steeplegate Mall

Shopping

Regional shopping center anchored by major retailers and featuring dining and entertainment options.

270 Loudon Rd

The Toadstool Bookshop

Shopping

Local bookstore chain location featuring new and used books plus gifts and games. Popular spot for author readings and community book clubs.

12 Depot St

True Brew Barista

Food & Drink

Local coffee roaster and café serving specialty coffee drinks, fresh-baked goods, and light breakfast and lunch options.

7 Bicentennial Sq

Living in Concord

What you need to know about making Concord your home.

Schools & Education

Concord School District (SAU 8) serves the city with a strong reputation for academic excellence and comprehensive programming from elementary through high school.

Cost of Living

Concord offers relatively affordable housing for a state capital, with median home prices typically 10-15% below the statewide average. Property taxes are moderate compared to other New Hampshire communities, though residents benefit from no state income or sales tax. The combination of stable government employment, reasonable housing costs, and access to urban amenities makes Concord an attractive option for families and professionals seeking good value in central New Hampshire.

Major Employers

State of New HampshireConcord HospitalConcord School DistrictCity of ConcordMerrimack CountyDartmouth-Hitchcock Concord

Commute Times

75 min
Boston
20 min
Manchester
45 min
Nashua
60 min
Portsmouth
65 min
Lebanon

School Directory

Beaver Meadow Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Broken Ground Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Christa McAuliffe Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Eastman Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Kimball Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Mill Brook Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Rundlett Middle School

Middle SchoolGrades 6-8

Concord High School

Crimson Tide · Division I
High SchoolGrades 9-12

New Hampshire Technical Institute

College/UniversityGrades Post-secondary

St. John Regional Catholic School

PK-8Grades PK-8

School District

Concord School District(SAU 8)

Stay in the loop on Concord

Get weekly updates about events in Concord and nearby — delivered free to your inbox.

Free weekly newsletter. Unsubscribe anytime.

Advertisement